Back from Zhengzhou! July-August is NOT recommended, it's just too...

💰 Budget reference (per person 800+ CNY) - Transport: 150 CNY (subway + Didi, attractions are concentrated) - Tickets: 250 CNY (combo tickets for must-visit spots offer better value) - Accommodation: 200 CNY/night (budget hotels in commercial areas) - Dining: 200 CNY (authentic Henan flavors every meal!) 🏯 Must-visit attractions & itinerary 📍Day1: Time-traveling cultural marathon - Morning: Henan Museum (free, book in advance!) → See Jiahu bone flute & Fu Hao owl-shaped zun, free guided tour at 9:30. - Lunch: Heji Stewed Noodles (Renmin Road branch) → Lamb noodles + sweet garlic combo, 40 CNY/person. - Afternoon: Zhengzhou Shangdu Ruins Museum → 3600-year-old Shang Dynasty city wall + 4D archaeological interaction, mind-blowing. - Evening: Jiankang Road Night Market → Almond tea, fried jelly noodles, BBQ - ultimate local vibe. 📍Day2: Yellow River charm + theatrical extravaganza - Morning: Yellow River Cultural Park (60 CNY ticket) → Cable car ride for "hanging river" spectacle, epic photos at Yan-Huang Emperors statue. - Lunch: Huifengyuan Stewed Noodles near park → Curry-based noodles, avoid overpriced "Yellow River carp". - Afternoon: Only Henan·Drama Fantasy City (main show 290 CNY) → 21 immersive plays! Night light show feels like time travel. 📍Day3: Shaolin kung fu + creative awakening - Full day: Songshan Shaolin Temple (1.5h from downtown) → 10:30 martial arts show + Pagoda Forest, take cable car to Sanhuangzhai for geological wonders. - Evening: Zhengzhou Memory·Oil Factory Creative Park → Red-brick factories turned into cafes/retro markets, hipster paradise. 🍜 Food hit list | Follow locals' recommendations! ✅ Must-try authentic flavors: - Fangzhongshan Spicy Soup (flagship store): Mild version with fried dough sticks, breakfast essential. - Geji Steamed Buns (Foniu Road branch): Red bean porridge + braised pork buns, carb overload heaven. - Shinan Road Night Market: Zhaojiuji tripe hotpot, Yehongxiao spicy crawfish tails - mouth-numbing good! 🚫 Avoid: - "Luxury ingredient" noodles in scenic areas (sea cucumber/abalone versions aren't worth it). - Tourist trap set meals near Erqi Square - stick to established eateries. 🏨 Accommodation picks | Location + value kings - Budget: Moshang Qingya Hotel (Erqi Wanda branch) → Metro access + 180° city view rooms, 130 CNY/person, kids' tents available. - Premium: Zhengzhou East Station Zhengshang Jianguo Hotel → Loft suites + themed family rooms, executive rooms include afternoon tea. - Night owls: Meihao Lizhi Hotel (Huayuan Road branch) → Giant projector rooms + free late-night snacks, near Zhenghong City night market. 💡 Pro tips 1. Transport: Avoid taxis during rush hours (7:30-9:00, 17:30-19:30)! Metro Line 1 covers main attractions. 2. Tickets: Book Shaolin Temple + Drama Fantasy City 1 day ahead to skip lines! 3. Gear: July temps exceed 35℃! Sun hat + mini fan + Huoxiang Zhengqi liquid are lifesavers.